Linear perspective: using a vanishing point and a horizon line to create depth within an artwork

Form: 3D (cube, pyramid, sphere, cylinder, cone...)

Texture: how a surface feels visually and physically

visual or implied texture: in a painting - how it looks to feel

actual texture: how a surface actually feels to the touch like feeling carpet or sandpaper

Shape: 2D (square, triangle, circles....)

organic shapes: free form like in nature

geometric forms: squares, rectangles, triangles....

Principles of Design

Formal Balance: happens when one half of a work is a mirror image of the other half.

Informal Balance: happens when two different objects seem to have the same visual weight, but do not have a mirror image.

Radial Balance: happens when elements or objects in an artwork are positioned around a central point.

Harmony: blending elements in a pleasing way, uncomplicated and soothing. Often artists use a small number of the same elements again and again, or repetition, to bring harmony to a work of art.

Emphasis: making an element or object in a work stand out.

Proportion: how parts of a work relate to each other and to the whole.

Movement: the principle of art that leads the viewer to sense action in a work or it can be the path the viewer’s eye follows throughout the artwork.

Rhythm: the repeating of an element to make a work seem active.

Unity: the arrangement of elements and principles with media to create a feeling of completeness. Unity in an artwork is like an unseen glue. You can’t point it out but you can sense it. You can also sense it when it is missing.

Pattern: repeated elements in an artwork.

Variety: the combination of elements to provide interest in an artwork.